Relationship Between Periodontal Morphology, Oral Habits, and Non-Carious Cervical Lesions: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Periodontal morphology and oral hygiene behaviors may play an important role in the development of non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs), which are characterized by the loss of dental hard tissue at the cervical region of the tooth without the presence of dental caries. NCCLs are considered multifactorial conditions associated with mechanical stress, toothbrushing habits, parafunctional behaviors, and periodontal soft tissue characteristics.

This cross-sectional observational study is designed to investigate the relationship between periodontal morphology, oral hygiene habits, and the presence of NCCLs in adults aged 18-65 years attending the Faculty of Dentistry of Necmettin Erbakan University. A total of 180 participants are planned to be included.

Clinical periodontal examination will be performed on the maxillary first premolar tooth. The evaluated parameters will include probing depth, gingival recession, clinical attachment level, keratinized tissue width, gingival phenotype, plaque index, gingival index, dentin hypersensitivity, and the presence of NCCLs. Tooth position and parafunctional habits associated with occlusal stress will also be recorded.

Participants will complete a structured questionnaire regarding demographic characteristics, oral hygiene practices, toothbrushing frequency and technique, toothbrush type, brushing force, and oral habits.

The primary objective of the study is to determine whether periodontal soft tissue characteristics and oral hygiene-related behaviors are associated with the presence of NCCLs. Statistical analyses will include descriptive statistics, group comparisons, and multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify factors independently associated with NCCLs.